SAÚL

Natalia Lafourcade's song 'SAÚL' delves into the complex and often painful experience of grappling with one's gender identity in a world that may not be accepting. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who identifies as a woman, engaging in traditionally feminine activities such as washing their hair, painting their nails, and wearing makeup. These actions are not just routine but are imbued with a sense of joy and self-expression, as seen in the lines about wanting strawberry ice cream when with a loved one. However, the repeated refrain 'Lo malo es que me llamo Saul' (The bad thing is that my name is Saul) reveals the internal and external conflict faced by the protagonist.

The song uses the metaphor of a mirror to explore themes of self-perception and societal expectations. The mirror reflects the protagonist's reality, a reality that is at odds with how they feel inside. The line 'que triste entender como ellas no puedo ser' (how sad to understand that I can't be like them) underscores the sorrow and frustration of not being able to fully embody the gender they identify with. The mirror, which 'never lies,' becomes a symbol of the harsh truth that society imposes on them, making it difficult to let go of their lipstick, a small but significant act of defiance and self-affirmation.

Lafourcade's poignant lyrics highlight the emotional turmoil and societal pressures faced by those who do not conform to traditional gender norms. The song's repetitive, almost hypnotic melody, represented by the 'turururururururururururururururururururururuuu' refrain, adds to the sense of being trapped in a cycle of misunderstanding and non-acceptance. 'SAÚL' is a powerful commentary on the struggle for identity and acceptance, urging listeners to empathize with and support those who face such challenges.